Nutella is threatened by frost damage: the price of Turkish hazelnuts is rising drastically

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 07. 04. 12:01

Severe spring frosts have hit Turkey, the world’s largest hazelnut producer, which not only threatens the livelihood of domestic farmers, but may also have a significant impact on the international food industry. Due to the crop failure, wholesale prices for hazelnuts have increased by 30% since April – and analysts say the price increase is not over yet – writes Agrárszektor.

Frosty spring, hot consequences

According to data from the agricultural analysis company Expana, this spring caused the most severe frost damage in Turkey in the past decade. Producers suffered the most damage in the higher-lying areas near the Black Sea: some farms lost up to 100% of their harvest. According to Cem Senocak, head of the National Hazelnut Council, the decline is 10-15% nationwide, but in the case of certain varieties, the loss may be 50-60%.

The situation could also be politically significant: the livelihood of some 450,000 Turkish families depends on hazelnut production, mainly in the northern provinces of the country, which are President Erdogan’s voter base.

Global effects: is Nutella in danger?

Turkey accounts for nearly 65% of the global hazelnut crop, so any domestic climatic or economic problems almost immediately affect the world market. Although the United States, Italy and Chile are also significant producers, their volumes are not sufficient to offset Turkish dominance.

Tensions are particularly high around the world’s largest buyer, Ferrero SpA, which buys nearly a quarter of the Turkish hazelnut crop for iconic products such as Ferrero Rocher and Nutella. In the latter, hazelnuts make up 13% of the recipe. However, the manufacturer has issued a reassuring statement for now, stating that despite the weather problems, they do not expect any supply disruptions, thanks to their diversified supply chain.